Discovery of Financial Irregularities Shocks Leadership (Image Credits: Nypost.com)
San Diego – A former chief operating officer at a local harm reduction nonprofit pleaded not guilty this week to felony charges of diverting more than $130,000 in public funds to personal luxuries.[1][2]
Discovery of Financial Irregularities Shocks Leadership
The Harm Reduction Coalition of San Diego, tasked with distributing free anti-overdose medications and fentanyl tests, relied on taxpayer dollars, grants, and opioid settlement funds to serve vulnerable residents. CEO Tara Stamos-Buesig noticed discrepancies in the organization’s finances last May and promptly reported them to the San Diego County District Attorney’s office.[1]
Investigators uncovered a pattern of misappropriation by Amy Knox, the 45-year-old former COO who had full control over the finances. Stamos-Buesig, who hired Knox years earlier after she disclosed a past arrest described as minor theft, expressed regret over her decision. The revelation prompted San Diego County to cancel contracts worth over $11 million with the nonprofit just a month later.[2]
Lavish Personal Expenses Funded by Public Money
Prosecutors detailed how Knox allegedly funneled the stolen $132,000 toward an array of indulgences far removed from the organization’s mission. District Attorney Summer Stephan described the scheme as sickening during a news conference, noting the funds’ intended life-saving purpose.[2]…